THE curtain comes down for the year at Bangor-on-Dee next Wednesday, with a large number of racegoers planning Christmas parties at the racecourse.
With no fixtures in January, it is the last chance to see racing in North Wales for two months.
It has been a splendid year of jump racing, with the racecourse attracting a modern-day record attendance during the summer.
The horse racing industry is in a period of change and faces new challenges in 2004, not least as a result of the Office of Fair Trading's inquiry into the sport, which could weaken National Hunt.
However, Bangor-on-Dee is in a strong position, with an excellent fixture list that will continue to draw the crowds.
It may be off-season at Chester, but the racecourse is still a hive of activity. The ticket office is doing brisk business for 2004, including many annual admission badges being snapped up as Christmas presents for racing fans. These badges always sell out well before the season starts in May and a limited number only are expected to be available come the new year. Details of Bangor-on-Dee's final fixture and admission prices are available on 01978 780323.
